Governor Hochul Makes Important Announcement In Buffalo

New York Governor Kathy Hochul recently made an important announcement about the Buffalo AKG Art Museum...

Photo byMTA via Wikimedia Commons

Governor Kathy Hochul recently impressed Buffalo by announcing the completion of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum's biggest expansion in over a century.

“The breathtaking Buffalo AKG Art Museum is one of the world's finest institutions for modern and contemporary art— showcasing the economic and cultural renaissance Western New York has experienced in recent years,” Governor Hochul said. “Buffalo is very fortunate to have a world-renowned art museum with a reputation that has grown to even greater prominence as it expands its campus and collection of works. The new building and campus are a dramatic work of art that will attract visitors and support the regional tourism economy for decades to come.”

The dramatic new three-story Jeffrey E. Gundlach building, as well as the restoration of two other historic buildings on the campus formerly known as Albright-Knox Art Gallery, are part of the $195 million expansion, restoration, and renovation project.

According to a statement by the Governor's office, AKG is expected to increase visitor numbers by more than 30% and attract at least 160,000 people per year. It is estimated that increased tourism will provide the region with an additional $34 million in economic benefit per year.

The museum also has a three-story translucent building that includes a visitor services desk, a black box theater, twelve galleries, a sculpture terrace, a coffee bar, and underground parking.

“The Buffalo AKG Art Museum is a cultural institution," said State Senator Tim Kennedy. "This extensive renovation is not only a recommitment to our arts community and our greater economy, it’s an investment in opportunity - in education, in innovation, and in the people who call this city and state home."

Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight was extremely pleased to see the re-opening of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum. "As one of the oldest public art institutions in the United States, the historic Buffalo AKG not only enhances the state's cultural offerings, but also supports the local and regional economies. New York State’s investment in the transformational expansion will boost Western New York tourism, create jobs, promote residents’ quality of life, and strengthen Buffalo’s thriving arts and culture scene.”

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